WATERTOWN UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
VACANCY NOTICE
SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM MANAGER
JOB LOCATION: WUSD Districtwide position
CERTIFICATION: DPI License - Special Education
START DATE: July 1, 2026 (211 day contract)
JOB DESCRIPTION: We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Special Education Program Manager to join the Watertown Unified School District. As the Special Education Program Manager, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the provision of high-quality special education services to our diverse student population, spanning preK-12. This position requires expertise in various areas, including IEP reviews, assistive technology, Headstart consultation, early childhood child find, early childhood special education, private school consultations and evaluations, transportation, teacher support, and Medicaid billing/transfer of service.
Responsibilities will involve the following, but not limited to, under the supervision of the Director of Special Education and Student Services:
Oversee the Individualized Education Program (IEP) review process, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
Collaborate with special education teachers and related service providers to develop and revise effective IEPs that meet students'' unique needs.
Monitor the implementation and progress of IEP goals and objectives.
Provide guidance and support in the selection, implementation, and maintenance of assistive technology devices and services.
Collaborate with assistive technology specialists and educators to ensure students have appropriate access to assistive technology tools.
Collaborate with Headstart programs to ensure seamless transitions for students with disabilities entering our district.
Provide consultation and support to Headstart staff regarding special education processes, referrals, and services.
Lead the child find process to identify children with disabilities in the early childhood population.
Collaborate with early childhood educators and service providers to develop and implement individualized services and supports for children with disabilities.
Coordinate and conduct evaluations for students attending private schools within the district.
Provide consultation and support to private school personnel regarding special education services and accommodations.
Collaborate with the transportation department to develop and implement transportation plans for students with special needs.
Ensure transportation services align with students'' IEP requirements and adhere to applicable laws and regulations.
Provide guidance and professional development opportunities for special education teachers to enhance their instructional practices.
Collaborate with general education teachers to support the implementation of inclusive practices and accommodations for students with disabilities.
Ensure accurate and timely Medicaid billing for eligible services provided to students with disabilities.
Coordinate the transfer of services for students transitioning between schools or districts, ensuring continuity of care.
In partnership with District Administration, prepare and deliver ongoing professional development for certified and non-certified staff.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor''s degree in Special Education or a related field (Master''s degree preferred).
Valid state certification in Special Education, Administration, or related area.
Extensive knowledge of federal and state special education laws, regulations, and best practices.
Experience in program management or leadership roles within a special education setting.
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Proficiency in using technology for data management, IEP tracking, and assistive technology tools.
Familiarity with Medicaid billing processes and regulations is desirable.
Knowledge of early childhood and transition special education programs and processes is a plus.
THE DISTRICT: Selected candidate will help to further the WUSD mission to serve our students by providing educational opportunities to promote academic excellence and a lifelong love of learning and to lead families, students and staff in realizing the WUSD vision of inspired learners through student-centered education strengthened by community involvement.
TRADITION. INNOVATION. TRANSFORMATION.
The Watertown School District has an enrollment of approximately 3,000 students taught in seven buildings.
THE COMMUNITY: The Watertown community has 24,000 residents and is located on the Rock River approximately halfway between Madison and Milwaukee, at the junction of Highways 16, 19, and 26.
APPLY BY: Applications will be reviewed until the needs of the district have been met.
The Watertown Unified School District does not discriminate in its education program, activities, or employment on the basis of race, color, religion or creed, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, marital status, or disability status.